In a recent interview with The Atlantic, President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized Ukraine's firm stance against accepting a subpar peace deal amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. He articulated that any agreement must provide secure and dignified terms that would effectively prevent future aggressions from Russia. The President indicated a willingness to engage in negotiations but firmly stated that he would rather remain without a deal than accept terms that undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and dignity.

Zelensky also highlighted Ukraine's proactive approach in demonstrating its commitment to peace by backing various U.S. proposals that aim to facilitate dialogue. He clarified that Ukraine is not an impediment to peace efforts and expressed hope that the Americans recognize Ukraine's seriousness in seeking a resolution to the war. His comments reflect a strategic mindset, aiming to alleviate concerns that Ukraine harbors intentions to prolong the conflict. Nevertheless, Zelensky's firm position serves as a critical reminder that Ukraine prioritizes its national integrity and security in the peace process.

Furthermore, addressing the current battlefield dynamics, Zelensky assured that Ukraine is not losing ground despite challenging circumstances. His remarks underline a distinction between Ukraine's openness to negotiations and its readiness to accept unfavorable terms. By setting these clear boundaries, Zelensky seeks to assert Ukraine's agency in the peace negotiation process, sending a message to both domestic and international audiences about the country's resilience and commitment to securing a favorable end to the conflict.